The Carnival in Naples is not just a parade of colorful costumes, confetti and festivity: it is a deep folk celebration, rich in satire, folklore and history. This festival has its roots in the Commedia dell'Arte and reflects the irreverent spirit of the Neapolitan people. Traditional masks are immortal figures that narrate, between comedy and reflection, the Neapolitan culture.

Pulcinella - The Neapolitan icon par excellence

Of all the Neapolitan Carnival masks, Punchinello is undoubtedly the most famous, not only in Naples but all over the world. Born in the Commedia dell'Arte in the 17th century, Pulcinella wears a white costume with a loose-fitting smock and pants, a distinctive hat and a black half-mask with a curved nose that gives him a grotesque appearance.

Pulcinella embodies several aspects of Neapolitan culture: the vitality and exuberance, the popular cunning with which he mocks injustice, and an irony that speaks of both mirth and melancholy. His figure is so rooted in tradition that he is often found in Naples' artisan workshops, especially in the historic center.

Tartaglia - Clumsiness and social satire.

Tartaglia Is a comic and tender mask. Its name derives from the stuttering, a distinctive trait of this character, whose figure dates back to the 17th century. At first he was often depicted as a funny servant in a colorful costume, but over time he became a caricature of respectable professions such as judge, lawyer or doctor, thus turning into a satirical mirror of society.

This development reflects the critical spirit of the Neapolitan Carnival: through awkwardness and hyperbole, Tartaglia allows ridicule of authority figures and institutions, keeping alive the ancient folk tradition of irony and mockery.

Scaramuccia - The Neapolitan Fanfare

Finally, Scaramuccia is the boastful, lying soldier of Neapolitan carnival tradition. His origins date back to ancient theater, but he was made famous by Neapolitan actors in the 17th century. Dressed in black, with a cap and often a guitar instead of a sword, Scaramuccia is a character who loves to tell tales of great deeds, even though he is doomed to defeat.

In a role similar to that of the Latin "miles gloriosus," Scaramuccia embodies the satire toward pride and haughtiness, entertaining the audience with his exaggerations and improbable deeds.

Carnival in Naples today

Today the Carnival tradition continues in Naples with events, costume parades, street performances and celebrations in historic neighborhoods. Classic masks such as Pulcinella, Tartaglia and Scaramuccia mingle with modern costumes, keeping alive the magic of a festival that is both fun, satire and cultural heritage.